Let’s start here: Cambodian Soup Nui (sometimes just called ’Nui Soup’) is one of those dishes that feels like home. It’s not flashy, not overly complicated, but it’s a meal that brings people together around the table. Imagine slurping a hot, savory broth, noodles soaking up all the flavor, tender slices of meat, and fresh herbs that brighten everything. It’s the kind of dish you crave on a chilly day, or honestly, anytime you need a bowl of comfort.
Soup Nui is like Cambodia’s answer to chicken noodle soup, though it often uses pork or beef as well, and the broth leans on the aromatic Southeast Asian pantry staples: garlic, fish sauce, green onion, and sometimes a hint of sugar to balance it out. It’s humble food with deep soul.
Soup Nui Recipe
Here’s the beauty of this dish: it’s not overly complicated, but it’s packed with layers of flavor. Think:
- A fragrant clear broth as the base.
- Rice noodles (soft and tender, never mushy).
- Meat-pork is traditional, but chicken, beef, or even shrimp work beautifully.
- Fresh herbs and vegetables tossed in at the end for brightness.
Ingredients Needed
Let’s lay everything out on the counter before we start. Here’s a classic set of ingredients:
For The Broth
- 1-2 lbs pork bones (or chicken bones if you prefer)
- 8 cups water
- 1 medium onion, halved
- 4 garlic cloves, smashed
- 1 daikon radish, peeled and sliced (optional but traditional)
- 2 stalks celery (optional for extra aroma)
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon sugar (balances the savory broth)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For The Noodles & Meat
- 1 lb fresh rice noodles (or dried, soaked and softened)
- ½ lb pork loin or chicken breast, thinly sliced
- A splash of soy sauce for marinating the meat
For Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Green onions, finely sliced
- Bean sprouts
- Fried garlic bits or shallots
- Lime wedges
- Chili paste or sliced chili peppers for heat
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Make The Broth
- Place your pork bones (or chicken bones) in a pot with cold water. Bring it to a boil, then discard that first water to get rid of impurities.
- Refill with fresh water, add onion, garlic, and daikon. Let it simmer low and slow for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Skim off any foam that rises to keep the broth clear.
- Season with fish sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper. Taste and adjust until it hits that savory-sweet balance.
Step 2: Prepare The Meat
- Thinly slice pork or chicken. Marinate lightly with soy sauce and a touch of fish sauce.
- Quickly poach the slices in the simmering broth until just cooked through.
Step 3: Cook The Noodles
- If using fresh rice noodles, just rinse and loosen them.
- For dried rice noodles, soak them in warm water until pliable, then boil briefly until tender but still springy. Drain well.
Step 4: Assemble The Bowls
- Place a generous serving of noodles in each bowl.
- Top with slices of meat.
- Ladle over the hot, fragrant broth.
- Finish with garnishes-cilantro, green onion, sprouts, fried garlic, lime, chili.
Ingredient Insights
Let’s talk about why these ingredients matter:
- Pork Bones/Chicken Bones – The heart of a good Soup Nui is its broth. Using bones creates richness and depth. Don’t skip this step-it’s worth the time.
- Fish Sauce – This is your umami bomb. Don’t be afraid of its strong smell; in the broth, it mellows beautifully.
- Daikon Radish – Traditional and adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory notes.
- Rice Noodles – They act like little flavor sponges. The trick is to avoid overcooking them-keep them slightly firm.
- Fresh Herbs – Cilantro and green onion don’t just garnish; they add brightness and contrast that keep the soup from feeling too heavy.
Expert Tips
Here are some tricks to make your Soup Nui restaurant-worthy:
- Blanch the bones first. That first boil clears out blood and impurities so your broth stays clean and beautiful.
- Simmer, don’t boil. A rolling boil will make the broth cloudy and harsh; a gentle simmer extracts flavor slowly.
- Balance is key. Don’t skip the tiny pinch of sugar-it’s not to make it sweet, but to round out the saltiness of the fish sauce.
- Fry your own garlic. Nothing beats the crunch and aroma of homemade fried garlic sprinkled over the top.
- Noodles last. Always cook or soak noodles separately, never directly in the broth pot. This keeps the broth clear and prevents starchiness.
Recipe Variations
Soup Nui is endlessly adaptable. Here are some twists you might love:
- Chicken Nui Soup: Swap pork for chicken bones and breast. It’s lighter but still deeply satisfying.
- Beef Nui Soup: Use beef bones and thinly sliced beef (like pho-style). Add star anise or ginger for a twist.
- Seafood Nui Soup: Use shrimp or fish; keep the broth lighter and finish with a squeeze of lime for freshness.
- Vegetarian Nui Soup: Skip the bones and make a vegetable broth with mushrooms, carrots, and daikon. Use tofu or seitan as the protein.
- Spicy Nui Soup: Add chili oil or sliced bird’s eye chilies directly into the broth for heat lovers.
Final Words
If you’ve never made Cambodian Soup Nui at home, this is your sign to give it a try. It’s a dish that’s both comforting and flexible-you can make it for a quick weekday dinner or simmer a big pot for a family gathering. It’s a recipe that rewards patience (for the broth) but doesn’t overwhelm you with complicated steps.
And the best part? Once you know the basics, you can customize it endlessly to suit your mood, your pantry, or your cravings.
FAQs
What Is Soup Nui?
Soup Nui is a traditional Vietnamese noodle soup typically made with thin rice noodles, a flavorful broth, and a combination of meat, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It is known for its light yet savory taste.
What Ingredients Are Needed For Soup Nui?
The essential ingredients include rice noodles, chicken or pork, garlic, onion, fish sauce, soy sauce, vegetables such as carrots and cabbage, fresh herbs like cilantro and green onions, and optional chili for heat.
How Do You Prepare The Broth For Soup Nui?
Start by simmering bones or meat in water for 1-2 hours to extract flavor. Add aromatics like onion, garlic, and ginger. Season with fish sauce, salt, and pepper. Strain the broth before adding noodles and vegetables.
Can Soup Nui Be Made Vegetarian?
Yes, a vegetarian version can be made by replacing meat with tofu or mushrooms and using vegetable stock instead of meat-based broth. Season with soy sauce, miso, or mushroom powder for depth of flavor.
What Type Of Noodles Are Best For Soup Nui?
Thin rice noodles are the most traditional choice because they absorb the broth well and provide a delicate texture that complements the soup. Avoid thicker pasta, which may overpower the light broth.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Soup Nui?
Preparation time is typically around 15-20 minutes, while cooking the broth can take 1-2 hours for full flavor development. Overall, the process may take up to 2.5 hours if making the broth from scratch.
Can Soup Nui Be Stored And Reheated?
Yes, the broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently on the stove and add fresh noodles and herbs just before serving to maintain texture and freshness.
What Are Some Common Toppings For Soup Nui?
Typical toppings include sliced green onions, cilantro, fried shallots, chili slices, lime wedges, bean sprouts, and sometimes a drizzle of sesame oil or chili oil for extra flavor.
How Can I Make Soup Nui Spicier?
Add sliced fresh chilies, chili paste, or chili oil to the broth or directly to individual servings. Adjust gradually to avoid overwhelming the subtle flavors of the broth.
Are There Regional Variations Of Soup Nui?
Yes, some regions may use different proteins such as beef, shrimp, or fish, and vary herbs and spices according to local tastes. Northern versions tend to have a lighter, clearer broth, while southern styles may be richer and sweeter.